Epigraph
/ˈepɪɡræf/
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Setting Tone
An epigraph can set the tone for the book or chapter that follows. 
The epigraph's somber tone prepared readers for the book's serious subject matter.
Pro Tip 2/3Reflective of Theme
Choose an epigraph that reflects the themes you will explore in your writing. 
Her novel on freedom opened with an epigraph about liberty.
Pro Tip 3/3Authors' Choices
Authors often pick an epigraph from another work to connect or contrast themes. 
The epigraph from Shakespeare shed light on the modern play's themes.
Compare with
CitationDedicationEpitaphInscriptionMaximMottoQuotationQuote
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